EPA to launch plane pollution regulations

New regulations on pollution from commercial airlines were announced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Monday.

Commercial aeroplane emissions – Carbone dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide – were classified as contributors to climate change and endangering public health by a new EPA report.

Specific emissions standards have not been set up yet, but they might be released in the beginning of next year, according to the New York Times.

EPA spokeswomen Janet McCabe said: "Addressing pollution from aircraft is an important element of U.S. efforts to address climate change... EPA has already set effective greenhouse gas standards for cars and trucks and any future aircraft engine standards will also provide important climate and public health benefits."

According to EPA, aircraft emissions are responsible for 3 per cent of total US greenhouse gas emissions, and it is the largest source of emissions which is not regulated yet by the agency.

Vera Pardee, spokeswoman for the Center for Biological Diversity, said: "After nearly a decade of denial and delay, we need fast, effective EPA action... The Obama administration must quickly devise ambitious aircraft pollution rules that dramatically reduce this high-flying hazard to our climate."

The implementation of the regulations depends on the results of the US presidential election next November, as candidate Hillary Clinton said she would continue Obama’s policies, whereas candidate Donald Trump declared his will of abolishing the EPA itself, according to the Washington Post.